Monsoon brings forth amazing weather and India becomes a lovely green paradise. The air is crisp, the ground seems alive and everything around looks especially beautiful. Not all Indian monsoon travel destinations are the same; they can be fresh and original, as seen in the misty Western Ghats and romantic Udaipur. However, having a wonderful monsoon vacation takes more than just booking a room and hoping for good weather from the rain gods. It’s a matter of finding the right place, packing your things wisely and planning a trip that saves you from getting wet by the rain or by costs.
If you want to know how to travel by monsoon in India, including tips on the best flight, simple booking processes and deals, our guide covers everything you need to know.
1. Find the Right Location – Where the Rain Takes Center Stage
Not every place is set up for the monsoon season, but some places are perfect for those who love rain. Don’t shy away from a rainy day, but enjoy it instead. There are many lovely spots to visit during the monsoon and these are a few to keep in mind:
In Munnar, Kerala, you’ll find tea gardens covered in fog, waterfalls flowing mightily and the earth’s damp scent. Munnar is a monsoon fairytale.
Coorg, Karnataka – Also called ‘Scotland of India’, Coorg looks its freshest and greenest during the rainy season. Exploring coffee plantations, winding trails and relaxing homestays make the place a great choice.
Experience romantic rain in Udaipur, Rajasthan. Lakes in the city are filled with the rain and the royal palaces seem even grander among the clouds.
Valley of Flowers, in Uttarakhand, has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site and blooms magnificently during the monsoon season. Seeing the trails covered in clouds and wildflowers is a feeling like nothing else.
Cherrapunji, Meghalaya is for you if you relish strong monsoon weather. Forested cliffs, nature-made bridges and powerful waterfalls will greet you in North East India.
2. Don’t submit your application just yet; or it might not be considered
India’s rainy season starts in June, ending in September. At the start, a lot of showers are typical, but after that you’ll likely find a much more romantic drizzle. Check the rainfall information for your destination ahead of making a flight reservation. Kerala is at its best in early July, while the Valley of Flowers bursts with color around mid-August.
3. Pick up a cheap flight as soon as you can, before they disappear
Many people fail to book their travel until it is almost too late. When most people think about monsoon, it’s as a period with low tourism, but in hill and popular resorts, this time is busy. The best way to save is by starting your travel arrangements early and finding low fare airline tickets.
Use fare alerts, check all airlines and try being flexible with your dates. Most times, daytime flights are less expensive than those on weekends. If you get lucky, some of your airfare savings may be used for self-indulgence!
4. Travel With Your Needs in Mind As Sunshine or Rain Could Arrive
The monsoon gives us more than lovely scenery; it also creates some problems. If you’re not ready, slushy paths, sudden rainfall and wet clothing can make you feel uncomfortable.
Pack these essentials:
A high-quality raincoat or poncho
Good-grip sandals or shoes that are waterproof
Quick-dry clothing
A sturdy umbrella
Plastic pouches used for storing electronics and documents
Over-the-counter remedies for cold, flu and upset stomachs
Check that your place has proper drainage, rooms with hot water and spaces under cover. Such small touches really lift your mood when it’s rainy outside.
5. Always choose places that help you create the suitable setting
Sipping hot tea while the rain makes noise outside your window is comforting in its own way. If you want to pick the right hotel, look for amenities like central heating, in-house cafés and comfortable rainy-day spots.
Warmth from boutique homestays, hilltop cottages and old-world heritage places often makes a monsoon holiday memorable. If you’ve already saved money on your flight by finding a good deal, you might want to spend a bit more on your hotel.
6. Find Out What the Region Is Best Known For in Its Food
Indian culture treats monsoon as a time for indulgence. Trying out dishes such as hot pakoras and warm bowls of thukpa adds to the enjoyment of a trip. In Kerala, fish is tasty and spiced in their curries, Coorg makes pandi curry you must try and Udaipur’s upper-floor restaurants have lovely rainy views and authentic thalis.
During monsoon, regions in the country also celebrate a variety of seasonal festivals. For example:
Onam in Kerala (August-September)
Sao Joao celebration in Goa takes place in June.
Teej in Rajasthan (July-August)
Take time before your trip starts to see if there’s any exciting local events happening that could enrich your vacation.
7. Keep yourself flexible and don’t take things too seriously
Bear in mind that things rarely go exactly as you plan on a monsoon trip and that’s alright. Airline flights occasionally run late, journeys’ plans may change and nature’s forces cannot be controlling. The most fun way to enjoy the monsoon is to not be afraid of the unusual.
Make your luggage as light as you can, keep a good attitude and let life lead you on an open schedule. Don’t hesitate to let your plans change, explore what surprises you and relax if it rains outside.
The Final Word
Focusing on the moody weather in monsoon season, planning your travels in India is meant to enjoy its raw and lively weather. A little planning, smart decisions and low-cost tickets can help you enjoy a wonderful rainy escape you’ll remember.
In other words, from exploring flowering valleys to spending time in palaces by the lake or in a chilly hillside, planning your fun during the rains should begin today. Compare flight prices online, make your bookings beforehand and relax as the rain start falls.
India is waiting—rain and all.
